Investigation of Locally Sourced Sand as Proppants in Hydraulic Fracturing Operations

Hydraulic fracturing is a critical reservoir stimulation technique that enhances hydrocarbon recovery by generating fracture networks to facilitate fluid flow from the reservoir to the wellbore. While conventional proppants effectively support fracture conductivity, their high cost drives the need for alternative, cost-efficient options. This study evaluates the potential of natural sands as economical proppants for hydraulic fracturing. The sands were characterized using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to assess their chemical composition and mechanical properties. To improve strength and minimize fines generation, locally sourced sands were coated with epoxy resin. An economic analysis was conducted to determine the feasibility of employing these sands in field operations. The findings demonstrate that quartz and topaz sands meet API ISO standards and are viable alternatives for hydraulic fracturing applications, offering a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.